Analysis highlights Khabib Nurmagomedov's underrated striking ability on mid-range

A detailed statistical analysis examined Khabib Nurmagomedov's often-overlooked striking skills, particularly his jab and mid-range game. Justin Gaethje previously praised Khabib's jab as highly effective due to his level-changing ability. The analysis reviewed Khabib's final five UFC fights using a flexible scoring system for significant strikes at mid-range. The data showed Khabib won or drew the mid-range striking battle in four of five fights: defeating Edson Barboza 25-11, dominating Al Iaquinta 77-23 (described as possibly the biggest jab-based title fight destruction in UFC history), narrowly losing to Conor McGregor 16-19, drawing with Dustin Poirier 6-6, and edging Justin Gaethje 14-12.25. The analyst argued that even against elite strikers like McGregor, Poirier, and Gaethje, Khabib held his own in boxing exchanges, using his jab to maintain pressure safely and set up takedowns. The analysis concluded that Khabib's mid-range striking was essential to his success, allowing him to close distance and pin opponents against the cage where his grappling was most effective.